Post date: May 2, 2017 11:17:56 PM
Leslie Keller interview with David Alan Binder
Bio from her website: [author name L.A. Keller] Leslie has been living and working in Phoenix, Arizona for more than twenty years. She graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in Communications.
Menu for Murder is the first novel in the Jayne Stanford mystery series and it draws upon her actual experiences in the restaurant industry. Cocktails at Sunset, the second book in the series continues Jayne's adventures. Look for it in e-book and paperback.
Website: http://www.lesliekellerbooks.com/index.html
https://twitter.com/leskellerbooks
https://instagram.com/lesliekellerbooks
https://www.facebook.com/lesliekellerbooks?ref=hl
https://www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-keller-92345052
https://plus.google.com/u/0/104594873863387176091/posts/p/pub
https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/LeslieKellerBooks
Menu for Murder universal link: https://books2read.com/u/bP1x8d
Cocktails at Sunset universal link: - https://books2read.com/u/3RBWEn
Smashwords book link: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/571531
1. Where are you currently living?
North Phoenix, Arizona surrounded by desert preserve
2. What is the most important thing that you have learned in your writing experience, so far?
Don’t give up. I think every author suffers setbacks. I wrote 100 pages only to have my flash drive crash. I now keep several backup copies as I work. I completely re-wrote the first book it after an editor gave me some very good advice. On days when I don’t feel creative, I do something that inspires me. And lastly, sometimes I just have to sit down and put words on the page, even when I don’t feel like I have anything worthwhile to write.
3. What would you say is your most interesting writing, publishing, editing or illustrating quirk?
I sometimes hold conversations with my characters just to get their opinions.
4. Tell us your insights on self-publish or use a publisher?
After a great deal of research and forethought, I created a publishing company to self-publish. I enjoy the freedom and control over my writing that I felt a traditional publishing house may not allow. Regardless of which route an author takes, she is responsible for marketing the work.
5. Any insights eBooks vs. print books and alternative vs. conventional publishing?
I find that both are necessary. Readers love meeting authors at book events and want a signed copy. Many readers have told me they still love the feel of a book.
6. Do you have any secret tips for writers on getting a book published?
There’s no secret – just hard work, a super editor and great cover art. Of course, the book itself must be good.
7. How did you or would you suggest acquire an agent? Any tips for new writers on getting one?
I would say the best route I found was to attend conferences. I’ve met a number of agents and received invaluable advice at writer conferences.
8. Do you have any suggestions or helps for new writers (please be specific and informational as possible)?
Make sure to have the work professionally edited before showing it to agents/editors and especially before publishing.
9. What was one of the most surprising things you learned with your creative process with your books, editing, publishing or illustrating?
I’ve learned the process of completing and publishing a book isn’t just about writing. Not only do you need to understand how to write well but you must also know how to run a business.
10. How many books have you written?
Two books and the third is underway.
11. Do you have any tricks or tips to help others become a better writer (please be as specific and information as you possibly can)?
Take every class, attend every conference, join every writing group and take great notes – you’ll need them later.
12. Do you have any suggestions for providing twists in a good story?
Since I write mysteries, this is an essential part. I outline and make sure to include red herrings as well as characters whose main purpose is to assist in solving the crime.
13. What makes your or any book stand out from the crowd?
My character is an everyday woman who works as a server in a restaurant in Cave Creek, Arizona. She’s a bit clumsy and flawed and despite her best efforts she can’t help but fall into trouble.
14. What are some ways in which you promote your work?
I use social media and attend book events.
15. What is the one thing you would do differently now (concerning writing or editing or publishing or illustrating) and why?
It’s a learning process so I would say maybe start sooner.
16. What saying or mantra do you live by?
I enjoy a bit of humor with my murder.